A SOUTHAMPTON Solent University lecturer has welcomed two girls who brightened up Christmas for hundreds serving in Afghanistan.

Sisters Hannah, 10, and Emma Bratton, six, sent 247 handmade cards to members of the Royal Military Police (RMP) prompting computing lecturer and radio presenter Vic Thorn to promote their efforts on his Voice FM Southampton and Skylinegold radio shows.

The girls were inspired to help after hearing stories of their grandfather’s time in the organisation.

Vic, a former serviceman, heard about what they were doing through a Facebook group for those with links to the RMP.

After all their hard work Vic invited them to travel to Southampton from their home in Hertfordshire with their parents for a tour of the university.

He said: “I was impressed with what they were doing as I am ex-military, having served with both The Parachute Regiment and the Royal Military Police. They have even bigger plans this Christmas to send to every serviceman serving in an operational environment a card. These kids are very special and an inspiration, not only to other kids but also us adults, reminding us what caring is all about.”